Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

Name: Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 cup red lentils; 1 bunch parsley (chopped); 1 onion (diced); 4 tbsp psyllium husks; 4 tbsp nutritional yeast flakes; 2 bell peppers (chopped); 1/2 cup flour (chickpea flour recommended); 2 tsps smoked paprika; 1 tsp spicy paprika; 1/2 tsp chili flakes; sea salt and ground pepper (to taste); oil (for frying)

Recipe By:

Natalia

Posted:

July 22, 2025

Updated:

July 22, 2025

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These Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes are a delightful addition to any meal! Perfect for satisfying your spicy food cravings, they are easy to prepare, protein-rich, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, a main dish, or just a healthy snack, these lentil cakes will impress everyone at the table. Their unique smoky taste and versatility make them suitable for various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: These lentil cakes come together in just 35 minutes, making them a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
Nutritious and Protein-Rich: Packed with lentils and nutritional yeast, these cakes offer a healthy dose of protein for a satisfying meal.
Versatile Flavor Combinations: Customize the spice level to your liking by adjusting the paprika and chili flakes.
Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week for quick lunches or snacks.
Kid-Friendly: The flavorful yet mild spice makes these cakes appealing even to picky eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools can make cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious spicy vegan lentil cakes.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Non-stick frying pan
Large mixing bowl
Pot for boiling lentils
Strainer
Fork or vertical blender

Importance of Each Tool

Non-stick frying pan: Prevents sticking and ensures easy flipping of the lentil cakes.
Large mixing bowl: Provides enough space to mix all ingredients thoroughly without mess.

Ingredients

These spicy vegan lentil cakes are perfect for satisfying your spicy food cravings! They’re easy to make, protein-rich, and have a spicy and smoky flavor!

For the Cakes

1 cup red lentils
1 bunch parsley (chopped)
1 onion (diced)
4 Tbsps psyllium husks (or one large egg)
4 Tbsps nutritional yeast flakes
2 bell peppers (I used one red and one yellow, chopped)
1/2 cup flour (I used some chickpea flour)
2 tsps smoked paprika
1 tsp spicy paprika
1/2 tsp chili flakes
sea salt and ground pepper (to taste)
oil (for frying)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

Step 1: Boil the Lentils

Add lentils in a pot and cover them with water. From the moment they start boiling, let them boil for about 15 minutes and then remove from heat.

Step 2: Strain and Mash Lentils

Strain the lentils very well and put them in a large bowl. Start mashing them using a fork or a vertical blender. Add the rest of the ingredients, except oil.

Step 3: Mix Your Ingredients

Start mixing the composition. It has to be sticky and easy to shape. If it’s not, it means that you didn’t strain the lentils very well and the composition is too wet. No problem! Just add more flour until it has a dough-like consistency. Alternatively, let it rest in the fridge for 10-15 minutes.

Step 4: Fry the Cakes

Spray a non-stick pan with some oil—just enough to coat it lightly. Put each patty on the frying pan and let it fry about 2 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Enjoy your Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes as a delicious main dish or snack!

How to Serve Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

These spicy vegan lentil cakes can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, making them a versatile addition to your meal rotation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.

With Fresh Salads

Green Salad: Serve your lentil cakes alongside a refreshing green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette.
Quinoa Salad: Pair with a protein-packed quinoa salad featuring cherry tomatoes and avocado for a satisfying meal.

In Sandwiches or Wraps

Lentil Cake Sandwich: Place the cakes between whole-grain bread with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite vegan mayo for a delicious sandwich.
Wrap It Up: Use a tortilla wrap filled with spicy lentil cakes, fresh veggies, and hummus for an on-the-go option.

Topped with Dips

Avocado Salsa: Top with creamy avocado salsa or guacamole for added flavor and creaminess.
Spicy Hummus: Serve alongside spicy hummus for an extra kick that complements the lentils beautifully.

How to Perfect Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

To achieve the ideal texture and flavor for your spicy vegan lentil cakes, consider these helpful tips.

Use Well-Strained Lentils: Make sure to strain the lentils thoroughly after boiling. This prevents excess moisture in the mixture.
Adjust Flour as Needed: If the mixture is too wet, add more flour incrementally until it reaches the right consistency.
Let It Rest: Chill the mixture in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. This helps it bind better and makes shaping easier.
Cook on Medium Heat: Fry the cakes on medium heat to ensure they cook through without burning on the outside.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices like smoked paprika or chili flakes according to your heat preference.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

Complement your spicy vegan lentil cakes with these delightful side dishes. Each option adds unique flavors and textures that enhance your meal.

Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers brings sweetness and crunch.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make for a comforting pairing.
Cucumber Raita: A cool yogurt-based dip that offers refreshing contrast to the spiciness of lentil cakes.
Coleslaw: A tangy cabbage slaw adds crunch and balance to your plate.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs can serve as a hearty base for lentil cakes.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with lime and spices is an easy side that pairs well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes can be fun and rewarding, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

Not Straining the Lentils Properly: If you don’t strain the lentils well, the mixture will be too wet. To avoid this, ensure you drain them thoroughly after boiling.
Ignoring the Consistency: The mixture should be sticky yet easy to shape. If it’s too dry or wet, adjust with flour or let it rest in the fridge to set.
Using Too Much Oil: Over-oiling the pan can lead to greasy cakes. Use just enough oil to coat the surface lightly for frying.
Skipping Flavor Variations: Sticking to the original recipe limits creativity. Feel free to add herbs or spices you love for a personalized touch.
Not Cooking Thoroughly: Ensure each cake is cooked until golden brown on both sides. Undercooked cakes may not have the desired texture or flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Best Practices: Allow them to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
Best Practices: Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer to a freezer bag or container.

Reheating Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat them for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat on high for about 30 seconds per cake; check if they’re hot throughout.
Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes per side, adding a little oil if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes gluten-free?

Yes, substitute chickpea flour with another gluten-free flour like rice or almond flour for a gluten-free option.

How can I customize my Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes?

Feel free to add chopped vegetables like spinach or carrots, or experiment with different spices and herbs according to your taste.

What should I serve with Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes?

These cakes pair wonderfully with a side salad, avocado slices, or your favorite dipping sauce like tahini or yogurt-based sauces.

Can I use other types of lentils for this recipe?

While red lentils work best due to their quick cooking time and texture, you can try yellow lentils as an alternative. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Spicy Vegan Lentil Cakes are not only delicious but also versatile and nutritious. They can easily fit into various meals—whether as a main dish, snack, or appetizer. Feel free to customize these cakes with your favorite ingredients and enjoy experimenting with flavors!